I had a similar problem with my pc( OS=XP SP2) with the same external drive model. I was able to solve it by downloading and installing WindowsXP-KB908673-x86-ENU Hotfix Package from Microsoft Corporation. I hope it works for you.

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ports(com&lpt)right click update driver if this fails to
fix the problem

check the USB leads that attach to the motherboard usually
red white green black make sure they are securely seated and have no dust build
up on them dust will cause static and a lot of unforeseen problems for a
computer and its parts

click start control panel administrive tools ,computer
management ,device manager look through all of your devices if you see a yellow
question mark?or exclamation mark ! or red x

first you can use your troubleshooter in your device manager to find out what that code 10 error is or you can go to the maxtor website in the support or troubleshoot section and tell them your code 10 error,it might be a driver needs to be updated.

Hi, according to Microsoft Support:
Code 10:
If the device has a FailReasonString value in its hardware key, that string appears as the error message. The driver or enumerator puts this registry string value there. If there is no FailReasonString in the hardware key, you receive the following error message:
This device cannot start. (Code 10)
(http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310123)
Recommended resolution:
Device failed to start. Click Update Driver to update the drivers for this device. On the General Properties tab of the device, click Troubleshoot to start the Troubleshooting Wizard.
Uninstalling and reinstalling does not fix, then you have to right click and updtae drivers assuming you have enabled you Automatic Updates.
Hope this be of some help. Pls post again how things turn up or if we can be of further assistance. Good luck.